Memory diseases and dementia can be incredibly intimidating to think about. No one wants to consider the possibility of losing precious memories or relationships with loved ones. Unfortunately, almost 55 million people around the world have some type of dementia such as Alzheimer’s.

If you occasionally lose your keys or have trouble recalling certain parts of a story, that is usually not a cause for immediate concern. When your memory troubles appear alongside a new side to your personality or you have difficulty managing daily tasks, it may be a sign of a deeper issue emerging.

Our AFC Urgent Care Cleveland team explains more about Alzheimer’s and what other symptoms to watch for below, so read on to learn more.

How Does Alzheimer’s Progress?

Alzheimer’s is the most common form of dementia and accounts for up to 80% of all dementia cases. This disease targets and destroys the brain cells that control your memory and critical thinking skills.

The risk for developing Alzheimer’s increases after the age of 65, but it can appear as early as 30 years old in rare cases. It usually starts out with mild symptoms like an inability to recall names, places or stories. Over time, it can start to impact more important things like remembering how to drive, personal hygiene tasks and your long-term memories. Memory diseases look different in everyone, but most sufferers share at least a few common symptoms.

Additional Symptoms of Alzheimer’s

• Misplacing items frequently
• Deepening confusion of events and people
• Mood and behavior changes
• Difficulty speaking, walking or swallowing

Can Alzheimer’s Be Reversed?

Unfortunately, Alzheimer’s cannot be reversed. It is a progressive disease that will only get worse as you age. However, there are certain medications that can slow down the disease and help support remaining memory. Memory rehab and cognitive therapies can also help.

While you can’t control your genetics or predisposition for developing Alzheimer’s, you can support your brain health every day by exercising, eating well and challenging it every day with word games, puzzles, reading or concentrating on hobbies like sewing or woodworking. The more you do now, the better chance you have of maintaining a healthy memory for as long as possible.

Tips for Preventing Alzheimer’s

• Consistent exercise throughout life
• Social engagement with peers and family
• Healthy diet
• Stress management

Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia can be incredibly isolating. Come to AFC Urgent Care Cleveland to meet with our care team.